In point of workmanship few of the model aeroplanes which have appeared at the meets this year compare with those built by R. Mungokee. The genius of the Japanese for delicate construction finds an admirable opportunity in such work. These models are unusually large, and their wing area considerable, yet so delicate are all the parts that they weigh less than one pound. The sticks used for the motor base are hollow, being built up of a light veneer one-sixteenth of an inch thick. The joints are so cleverly arranged that they would deceive the average eye. The main sticks of the frame are joined by a series of trusses of the same delicate construction which form an exceptionally rigid base of amazing lightness. Every detail of the model shows the same delicacy of construction. The planes are built up of thin strips of bamboo covered with Japanese silk on both surfaces, the curve being drawn perfectly. The models are driven by two very wide propellers of high pitch, placed back of the rear plane. The smaller plane is carried forward. The model rises to considerable height, often fifty feet or more, and flies horizontally with unusual stability. The frame is braced by fine wires running through struts placed midway above and below the main sticks. The finest scale model aeroplane in America to-day is doubtless the biplane built by Mr. Karl H. De Leon, illustrated on the cover of this volume. Its great size is indicated by comparison with the boys standing about it. The most delicate workmanship is to be found in every detail. The planes are controlled by a complete system of wires and levers centered at the driver’s seat, exactly as in the large man-carrying machines.. The wings may be flexed and the guiding rudders turned from side to side or their angle elevated or depressed by the slightest movement of the controlling devices. The model is equipped with a miniature Gnome engine especially imported for the purpose. The materials employed in constructing this model alone cost upwards of $500. The model embodies several original features, the inventions of the builder. [Illustration: Front view of the De Lion model] Several of the most interesting models of the year have been designed and built by Mr. W. S. Howell, Jr., a very painstaking and intelligent student of aeronautics. Mr. Howell has done much valuable original work in building scientific gliders. One of his gliders weighing nearly two pounds, has been thrown for more than 600 feet measured in a straight line, while the actual distance traversed was probably two or three times this distance. The model is of exquisite workmanship in every part. Mr. Howell is the inventor of several devices for increasing the efficiency of rubber-strand motors by reverse winding. CHAPTER XV CURIOSITIES OF THE AIR